John J. “JT” Taylor

John J. “JT” Taylor, age 63 of Paris, passed away Wednesday, September 16, 2015 at his home. He was born July 25, 1952 in Big Rapids, the son of John “Jack” and Rose (Whalen) Taylor. JT graduated from Reed City High School in 1971. He was a parishioner of St. Anne Catholic Church in Paris.
JT’s passion and lifetime career for 47 years was harness horse training for Taylor Stables. His first race was at the age of 16 on May 31st in Marion with Delightful Lady. As a 16 year old in 1969, JT took Top Honors for most wins on the Matinee Circuit in Northern Michigan. On December 9, 1971 at Northville Downs he had his first para-mutual start at age 18, also with Delightful Lady. JT’s last race, 47 years later, on July 12, 2015 was with Aaron Colley’s A.J. Hammerhill taking the pacer to his first lifetime win. He was a member of USTA and MHHA.
JT enjoyed hunting with his buddies and he was a fun loving man that was always willing to help a friend. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
JT is survived by his wife, Carie Makin of Paris; son, Trevor (Stacey) Taylor of South Webber, UT; step-son, Matthew (Emily) Edwards of Atlantic Beach, FL; grandson, Coty Edwards; five sisters, Barbara (Keith) Ellison of Rockford, Mary (David) Jaques of Paris, Theresa (Kenneth) Robbins of Durand, Pamela Allen and Patricia (Roger) Rehkopf of Rockford; three nieces and 11 nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Betty Taylor.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place 11:00 a.m. Monday, September 21, 2015 at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church in Reed City, 831 S. Chestnut Street, with Father Michael Hodges officiating. The family will greet friends from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. at the church. For a Mass to be prayed in JT’s name, Mass Cards will be available at the church.
Memorial contributions in JT’s name may be made in memory of Brad Hanners Strong at www.GoFundMe.com/HannersStrong.
Share a memory or leave a condolence for the family at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com

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